Unpasteurized cheeses should be avoided as they may contain bacteria called Listeria. Infection with listeria during pregnancy may cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or mental retardation in an affected fetus.

Commercially made salad dressings, mayonnaise, and sauces use pasteurized eggs that are safe to eat

Question: What is the biggest difference between the hormone replacement therapy that is out now to the holistic, homeopathic, natural medications that are out there for relieving the symptoms of menopause?

Postmenopausal Hormone Therapy Alternatives:

The research available supporting the use of complementary and alternative treatments for night sweats and hot flashes associated with menopause is limited and it is unclear if these treatments are safe and/or effective.

Phytoestrogens (soy, legumes, flaxseed, red clover)

Acupuncture

Vitamin E

Black Cohosh

Ginseng

Dong quai

Wild yam

Evening primrose oil

These treatments should be used with caution, especially in women with estrogen-dependent cancers (such as certain types of breast cancer)

Several non-hormonal treatments have been shown to be effective in the treatment of hot flashes and night sweats, including SSRI's, SNRI's, clonidine, and gabapentin

Question: Is it true that birth control lowers the sex libido?

Birth Control Pills and Libido:

There is a link between lowered sexual desire, decreased vaginal lubrication, pain with intercourse and oral contraceptives (birth control pills)

This may be due to lowered circulating testosterone levels

This does not occur in all women taking the pill

Vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse may be improved with over the counter lubricants

Talk to your doctor about changes in sexual function that occur after the pill is started

About Dr. Leah Millheiser Dr. Millheiser oversees the Female Sexual Medicine Program, which is available to women of all ages in the discreet surroundings of our Stanford Hospital office. This clinic provides treatment for the following disorders: decreased libido; decreased arousal; anorgasmia; dyspareunia and vaginismus. We take a multidisciplinary approach to female sexual medicine, working in conjunction with a licensed sex therapist, pelvic floor physical therapist, as well as alternative health practitioners.